CBIC Enables UPI and Card Payments for Customs Duty via ICEGATE Platform

The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has expanded digital payment capabilities on its ICEGATE platform by introducing payment aggregator support, enabling faster and more flexible customs duty payments, as per news reports. 

New Digital Payment Options Introduced 

With the integration of a payment aggregator system, importers can now pay customs duties using credit cards, debit cards, and Unified Payments Interface (UPI). This move significantly broadens the range of digital payment methods available on ICEGATE. 

The addition is expected to improve ease of doing business by offering more convenient and real-time payment options for trade participants. 

Wider Banking Access Through Aggregator Mode 

The updated system also enhances banking accessibility. Payments through internet banking under the aggregator model will now be supported by 41 banks, up from the earlier 23 banks. 

This expanded network is likely to reduce dependency on limited banking channels and ensure smoother transaction processing for importers across the country. 

Seamless and Instant Payment Processing 

The platform continues to support transaction-wise payments, allowing importers to settle duties for individual consignments. Payments made through the aggregator route are processed instantly through the system before being accounted against duty obligations. 

This ensures faster clearance cycles and improved operational efficiency in customs processing. 

Initial Rollout and Future Expansion 

At present, major banks including ICICI Bank, Indian Overseas Bank, State Bank of India and HDFC Bank have been integrated into the payment aggregator framework. Additional banks are expected to be onboarded in phases as technical integrations are completed. 

The new option will function alongside existing payment methods such as NEFT/RTGS and direct internet banking through RBI channels. 

Read More: UPI Transaction Growth Eases to 30%, Volumes Seen at 240 Billion in FY26! 

Conclusion 

By enabling multiple digital payment modes and expanding banking access, CBIC’s latest move strengthens the ICEGATE platform and simplifies customs duty payments for importers, supporting faster and more efficient trade operations. 

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